Lock and Edge Options for 2025

Jolls

Jolls

Well-known member
Warning: 5 Minute Read 2 Part Post due to length

PART 1

Our 2025 rebuild is on track to see us rise from cellar dwellers; however, despite positive recruitment outcomes we lack proven capabilities on our edges and at lock. It is highly likely that we will need to fill these positions from within if we are to have a successful 2025 NRL campaign. These two positions play a pivotal role in our defensive structures, ball movement, and overall match tempo.

We have a mix of seasoned and developing players along with some who have yet to demonstrate that they have the skills to play at NRL level. We have a variety of options to consider, including versatile players like Jack Bird and John Bateman through to young, emerging forwards like Justin Matamua and Sione Fainu.

The aim of this analysis is to examine the strengths, weaknesses, and suitability of players, looking at their potential to fill the voids in 2025. This includes evaluating their fit for the lock and edge roles, their readiness for NRL-level competition, and how their development could influence the team’s prospects. It should be noted that my exposure to some of the more junior players is limited to to KOE replays.

Assumptions:
  • Terell May will play Front Row
  • Sam Fainu will lock down one edge position
Analysis of Lock and Edge Options for 2025

​

Jack Bird
  • Strengths:
    • Versatile playmaker with experience in multiple roles.
    • Ball playing skills are excellent
    • Strong ball-running ability and physicality - Durability concerns due to a history of injuries.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Potential defensive lapses in edge defence under pressure.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: A creative, ball-playing option, but durability is a concern.
    • Edge: Could play edge but more suited to a roaming lock with creative freedom.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Likely starting lock, but injury risks remain. Requires quality backup option
​

Fonua Pole
  • Strengths:
    • Youthful energy with solid physical presence.
    • Improving ball skills and mobility.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lateral Defence
    • Inconsistent performances at NRL level
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Promising, with potential to develop into a dynamic forward.
    • Edge: Could adapt but better suited to the middle.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Will be part of the NRL squad, potentially starting at prop; however, is a possible backup for Jack Bird at lock.
​

Sione Fainu
  • Strengths:
    • Adaptability, making him suitable for both lock and edge positions.
    • High work rate
    • Effective defensive capabilities
    • Ball-playing skills.
    • Potential; room for growth in both physicality and game intelligence
  • Weaknesses:
    • Inexperience at NRL Level. Despite potential is relatively untested.
    • Consistency.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Defensive effort and ball-handling skills align well. Potential to grow into a game-managing forward could make him a long-term option.
    • Edge: His mobility and tackling ability could see him excel; however, his footwork at the line and ball playing ability might make him more effective as a lock.
  • Likelihood 2025: Given our focus on youth development he is likely to be given opportunities in 2025. He is a strong contender for consistent game time in either role
​

John Bateman
  • Strengths:
    • Experience and leadership????
    • Effective defensive.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Inconsistent form since returning to the NRL.
    • Discipline.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Fits a playmaking role, but has been ineffective previously due to his cross field running.
    • Edge: Experienced option with a high work rate in defence. May be more effective in attack with a better halves pairing,
  • Likelihood in 2025: High probability of locking down and edge position, pending resolution of club relationship issues.
​

Justin Matamua
  • Strengths:
    • Excellent ball-playing ability; a modern lock prototype
    • Aggressive runner with a high work rate (at times).
  • Weaknesses:
    • Defensive consistency needs improvement for NRL level.
    • Limited NRL experience and has not demonstrated proficiency at this level.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: High potential with focus on creativity and leadership.
    • Edge: Viable, but agility may limit effectiveness in this position.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Strong chance of being part of the team as a developing lock; likely to be in a development role in KOE.
​

Alex Seyfarth
  • Strengths:
    • Reliable defender with high work rate.
    • Provides energy and physicality off the bench.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks the attacking flair needed for lock.
    • Has not consistently cemented a starting role in the NRL.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Better suited for defensive backup rather than starting.
    • Edge: Lacks the line-running impact for an edge forward; but is likely to be suitable if he puts on some muscle over the off season.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Depth player for forward rotation.
​

Alex Twal
  • Strengths:
    • Extremely reliable in defense; high tackle efficiency.
    • Experience in tight forward roles.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Limited attacking contribution and creativity.
    • Likely to struggle with faster, more mobile lock roles.
    • Despite his strength lacks physicality in contact
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Defence first option but lacks attacking flair.
    • Edge: Unlikely due to limited attacking skill and lateral movement.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Depth middle; most likely in the prop rotation.
​
 
Last edited:
PART 2
Reuben Porter
  • Strengths
    • Versatility: can play edge and middle forward positions.
    • Defensive Work Rate
    • Experience: While his NRL experience is limited, his eight years in reserve-grade provide a strong foundation
  • Weaknesses
    • Lack of NRL experience; his consistency is not fully tested. Requires further development to compete at NRL level
    • Attacking Play is not as refined as other edge players. He is more of a workhorse, excelling in the physical aspects of the game. Need to add more attacking finesse to his skill set to become a dominant edge forward
  • Suitability for 2025
    • Lock: Limited suitability due to his lack of footwork.
    • Edge Forward: He is a solid option for the edge. His defensive stability and toughness will be assets when facing high-powered edge attackers. However, his limited attacking prowess could see him more frequently in a middle-forward role.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Edge/Middle in KOE; his versatility and defensive qualities make him a valuable depth asset in 2025.
​

Kit Laulilii
  • Strengths:
    • Strong defensive player with leadership potential.
    • Solid development through Tigers' pathways.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks NRL experience.
    • Needs to develop attacking skills.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Long-term prospect with potential.
    • Edge: Less likely due to limited lateral mobility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Tony Sukkar
  • Strengths:
    • Solid foundation; athletic player.
    • Good defensive effort.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks experience at the NRL level
    • Defensive reads can be poor.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Not likely to be suitable
    • Edge: This will depend on his preseason progress and ability to seize opportunities in trial matches
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Brandon Tumeth
  • Strengths:
    • Tenacious defender and hard worker.
    • Physical style suits edge or middle roles.
  • Weaknesses:
    • NRL experience is limited and skill refinement required.
    • Offensive skills, particularly ball-playing, require improvement.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Depth option with limited potential for growth.
    • Edge: Could adapt to an edge role with added agility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades.
​

Tim Johanssen
  • Strengths:
    • Emerging talent with a strong record of development in 2024.
    • Effective in both defence and offense in lower grades.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Inexperienced at NRL level; needs physical and technical development.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Developmental prospect.
    • Edge: Could adapt with increased agility and lateral movement.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE; may see limited NRL minutes due to injury.
​

Projected 2025 Lineup
  • Lock: Jack Bird is likely to lock the scrum and play a roaming role in attack with Justin Matamua in a development role in KOE. Fonua Pole and Sione Fainu have potential to fill the role if Bird is injured or does not work out.
  • Edge: If retained John Bateman is likely to fill the edge position with Alex Seyfarth/Sione Fainu as first drop. Reuben Porter and Brandon Tumeth/Tony Sukkar are likely to fill the edge positions in KOE. There is a significant lack of depth in this position and we would be well served by moving on one of the junior players and purchasing an experienced NRL edge.
Based on my analysis I think we have a range of exciting, versatile and developing lock options for 2025. However, our edge depth is limited which is likely to cause significant problems if we have a run of injuries. At this point in time we will be relying on some of our less experienced players to step up if we are to make the eight in 2025.

What alternative approaches do you see?
 
Last edited:
Jolls said:
PART 2
Reuben Porter
  • Strengths
    • Versatility: can play edge and middle forward positions.
    • Defensive Work Rate
    • Experience: While his NRL experience is limited, his eight years in reserve-grade provide a strong foundation
  • Weaknesses
    • Lack of NRL experience; his ability to consistently is not fully tested. Requires further development to compete at NRL level
    • Attacking Play is not as refined as other edge players. He is more of a workhorse, excelling in the physical aspects of the game. Needd to add more attacking finesse to his skill set to become a dominant edge forward
  • Suitability for 2025
    • Lock: Limited suitability due to his lack of footwork.
    • Edge Forward: He is a solid option for the edge. His defensive stability and toughness will be assets when facing high-powered edge attackers. However, his limited attacking prowess could see him more frequently in a middle-forward role.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Edge/Middle in KOE; his versatility and defensive qualities make him a valuable depth asset in 2025.
​

Kit Laulilii
  • Strengths:
    • Strong defensive player with leadership potential.
    • Solid development through Tigers' pathways.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks NRL experience.
    • Needs to develop attacking skills.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Long-term prospect with potential.
    • Edge: Less likely due to limited lateral mobility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Tony Sukkar
  • Strengths:
    • Solid foundation; athletic player.
    • Good defensive effort.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks experience at the NRL level
    • Defensive reads can be poor.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Not likely to be suitable
    • Edge: This will depend on his preseason progress and ability to seize opportunities in trial matches
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Brandon Tumeth
  • Strengths:
    • Tenacious defender and hard worker.
    • Physical style suits edge or middle roles.
  • Weaknesses:
    • NRL experience is limited and skill refinement required.
    • Offensive skills, particularly ball-playing, require improvement.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Depth option with limited potential for growth.
    • Edge: Could adapt to an edge role with added agility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades.
​

Tim Johanssen
  • Strengths:
    • Emerging talent with a strong record of development in 2024.
    • Effective in both defence and offense in lower grades.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Inexperienced at NRL level; needs physical and technical development.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Developmental prospect.
    • Edge: Could adapt with increased agility and lateral movement.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE; may see limited NRL minutes due to injury.
​

Projected 2025 Lineup
  • Lock: Jack Bird is likely to lock the scrum and play a roaming role in attack with Justin Matamua in a development role in KOE. Fonua Pole and Sione Fainu have potential to fill the role if Bird is injured or does not work out.
  • Edge: If retained John Bateman is likely to fill the edge position with Alex Seyfarth/Sione Fainu as first drop. Reuben Porter and Brandon Tumeth/Tony Sukkar are likely to fill the edge positions in KOE. There is a significant lack of depth in this position and we would be well served by moving on one of the junior players and purchasing an experienced NRL edge.
Based on my analysis I think we have a range of exciting, versatile and developing lock options for 2025. However, our edge depth is limited which is likely to cause significant problems if we have a run of injuries. At this point in time we will be relying on some of our less experienced players to step up if we are to make the eight in 2025.

What alternative approaches do you see?
Click to expand...
You should have been an author Jolls lol
 
Jolls said:
Warning: 5 Minute Read 2 Part Post due to length

PART 1

Our 2025 rebuild is on track to see us rise from cellar dwellers; however, despite positive recruitment outcomes we lack proven capabilities on our edges and at lock. It is highly likely that we will need to fill these positions from within if we are to have a successful 2025 NRL campaign. These two positions play a pivotal role in our defensive structures, ball movement, and overall match tempo.

We have a mix of seasoned and developing players along with some who have yet to demonstrate that they have the skills to play at NRL level. We have a variety of options to consider, including versatile players like Jack Bird and John Bateman through to young, emerging forwards like Justin Matamua and Sione Fainu.

The aim of this analysis is to examine the strengths, weaknesses, and suitability of players, looking at their potential to fill the voids in 2025. This includes evaluating their fit for the lock and edge roles, their readiness for NRL-level competition, and how their development could influence the team’s prospects. It should be noted that my exposure to some of the more junior players is limited to to KOE replays.

Assumptions:
  • Terell May will play Front Row
  • Sam Fainu will lock down one edge position
Analysis of Lock and Edge Options for 2025

​

Jack Bird
  • Strengths:
    • Versatile playmaker with experience in multiple roles.
    • Ball playing skills are excellent
    • Strong ball-running ability and physicality - Durability concerns due to a history of injuries.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Potential defensive lapses in edge defence under pressure.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: A creative, ball-playing option, but durability is a concern.
    • Edge: Could play edge but more suited to a roaming lock with creative freedom.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Likely starting lock, but injury risks remain. Requires quality backup option
​

Fonua Pole
  • Strengths:
    • Youthful energy with solid physical presence.
    • Improving ball skills and mobility.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lateral Defence
    • Inconsistent performances at NRL level
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Promising, with potential to develop into a dynamic forward.
    • Edge: Could adapt but better suited to the middle.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Will be part of the NRL squad, potentially starting at prop; however, is a possible backup for Jack Bird at lock.
​

Sione Fainu
  • Strengths:
    • Adaptability, making him suitable for both lock and edge positions.
    • High work rate
    • Effective defensive capabilities
    • Ball-playing skills.
    • Potential; room for growth in both physicality and game intelligence
  • Weaknesses:
    • Inexperience at NRL Level. Despite potential is relatively untested.
    • Consistency.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Defensive effort and ball-handling skills align well. Potential to grow into a game-managing forward could make him a long-term option.
    • Edge: His mobility and tackling ability could see him excel; however, his footwork at the line and ball playing ability might make him more effective as a lock.
  • Likelihood 2025: Given our focus on youth development he is likely to be given opportunities in 2025. He is a strong contender for consistent game time in either role
​

John Bateman
  • Strengths:
    • Experience and leadership????
    • Effective defensive.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Inconsistent form since returning to the NRL.
    • Discipline.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Fits a playmaking role, but has been ineffective previously due to his cross field running.
    • Edge: Experienced option with a high work rate in defence. May be more effective in attack with a better halves pairing,
  • Likelihood in 2025: High probability of locking down and edge position, pending resolution of club relationship issues.
​

Justin Matamua
  • Strengths:
    • Excellent ball-playing ability; a modern lock prototype
    • Aggressive runner with a high work rate (at times).
  • Weaknesses:
    • Defensive consistency needs improvement for NRL level.
    • Limited NRL experience and has not demonstrated proficiency at this level.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: High potential with focus on creativity and leadership.
    • Edge: Viable, but agility may limit effectiveness in this position.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Strong chance of being part of the team as a developing lock; likely to be in a development role in KOE.
​

Alex Seyfarth
  • Strengths:
    • Reliable defender with high work rate.
    • Provides energy and physicality off the bench.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks the attacking flair needed for lock.
    • Has not consistently cemented a starting role in the NRL.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Better suited for defensive backup rather than starting.
    • Edge: Lacks the line-running impact for an edge forward; but is likely to be suitable if he puts on some muscle over the off season.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Depth player for forward rotation.
​

Alex Twal
  • Strengths:
    • Extremely reliable in defense; high tackle efficiency.
    • Experience in tight forward roles.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Limited attacking contribution and creativity.
    • Likely to struggle with faster, more mobile lock roles.
    • Despite his strength lacks physicality in contact
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Defence first option but lacks attacking flair.
    • Edge: Unlikely due to limited attacking skill and lateral movement.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Depth middle; most likely in the prop rotation.
​
Click to expand...
I read that when I stop giggling.
Thanks Masthead. 👍🏻
 
Jolls said:
PART 2
Reuben Porter
  • Strengths
    • Versatility: can play edge and middle forward positions.
    • Defensive Work Rate
    • Experience: While his NRL experience is limited, his eight years in reserve-grade provide a strong foundation
  • Weaknesses
    • Lack of NRL experience; his consistency is not fully tested. Requires further development to compete at NRL level
    • Attacking Play is not as refined as other edge players. He is more of a workhorse, excelling in the physical aspects of the game. Need to add more attacking finesse to his skill set to become a dominant edge forward
  • Suitability for 2025
    • Lock: Limited suitability due to his lack of footwork.
    • Edge Forward: He is a solid option for the edge. His defensive stability and toughness will be assets when facing high-powered edge attackers. However, his limited attacking prowess could see him more frequently in a middle-forward role.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Edge/Middle in KOE; his versatility and defensive qualities make him a valuable depth asset in 2025.
​

Kit Laulilii
  • Strengths:
    • Strong defensive player with leadership potential.
    • Solid development through Tigers' pathways.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks NRL experience.
    • Needs to develop attacking skills.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Long-term prospect with potential.
    • Edge: Less likely due to limited lateral mobility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Tony Sukkar
  • Strengths:
    • Solid foundation; athletic player.
    • Good defensive effort.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks experience at the NRL level
    • Defensive reads can be poor.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Not likely to be suitable
    • Edge: This will depend on his preseason progress and ability to seize opportunities in trial matches
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Brandon Tumeth
  • Strengths:
    • Tenacious defender and hard worker.
    • Physical style suits edge or middle roles.
  • Weaknesses:
    • NRL experience is limited and skill refinement required.
    • Offensive skills, particularly ball-playing, require improvement.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Depth option with limited potential for growth.
    • Edge: Could adapt to an edge role with added agility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades.
​

Tim Johanssen
  • Strengths:
    • Emerging talent with a strong record of development in 2024.
    • Effective in both defence and offense in lower grades.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Inexperienced at NRL level; needs physical and technical development.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Developmental prospect.
    • Edge: Could adapt with increased agility and lateral movement.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE; may see limited NRL minutes due to injury.
​

Projected 2025 Lineup
  • Lock: Jack Bird is likely to lock the scrum and play a roaming role in attack with Justin Matamua in a development role in KOE. Fonua Pole and Sione Fainu have potential to fill the role if Bird is injured or does not work out.
  • Edge: If retained John Bateman is likely to fill the edge position with Alex Seyfarth/Sione Fainu as first drop. Reuben Porter and Brandon Tumeth/Tony Sukkar are likely to fill the edge positions in KOE. There is a significant lack of depth in this position and we would be well served by moving on one of the junior players and purchasing an experienced NRL edge.
Based on my analysis I think we have a range of exciting, versatile and developing lock options for 2025. However, our edge depth is limited which is likely to cause significant problems if we have a run of injuries. At this point in time we will be relying on some of our less experienced players to step up if we are to make the eight in 2025.

What alternative approaches do you see?
Click to expand...
Galvin maybe in a couple of years, but I think you just about covered it.
Once again good read. I’m thinking Bird is first up, but would really like to see Matamua fulfill some of his muched hyped lock potential as we have invested a bit in him. With a pro footballer like Bird at lock, Matamua might learn something about resilience and being tougher on the field, to go with his ball playing ability.
 
Jolls said:
PART 2
Reuben Porter
  • Strengths
    • Versatility: can play edge and middle forward positions.
    • Defensive Work Rate
    • Experience: While his NRL experience is limited, his eight years in reserve-grade provide a strong foundation
  • Weaknesses
    • Lack of NRL experience; his consistency is not fully tested. Requires further development to compete at NRL level
    • Attacking Play is not as refined as other edge players. He is more of a workhorse, excelling in the physical aspects of the game. Need to add more attacking finesse to his skill set to become a dominant edge forward
  • Suitability for 2025
    • Lock: Limited suitability due to his lack of footwork.
    • Edge Forward: He is a solid option for the edge. His defensive stability and toughness will be assets when facing high-powered edge attackers. However, his limited attacking prowess could see him more frequently in a middle-forward role.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Edge/Middle in KOE; his versatility and defensive qualities make him a valuable depth asset in 2025.
​

Kit Laulilii
  • Strengths:
    • Strong defensive player with leadership potential.
    • Solid development through Tigers' pathways.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks NRL experience.
    • Needs to develop attacking skills.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Long-term prospect with potential.
    • Edge: Less likely due to limited lateral mobility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Tony Sukkar
  • Strengths:
    • Solid foundation; athletic player.
    • Good defensive effort.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks experience at the NRL level
    • Defensive reads can be poor.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Not likely to be suitable
    • Edge: This will depend on his preseason progress and ability to seize opportunities in trial matches
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Brandon Tumeth
  • Strengths:
    • Tenacious defender and hard worker.
    • Physical style suits edge or middle roles.
  • Weaknesses:
    • NRL experience is limited and skill refinement required.
    • Offensive skills, particularly ball-playing, require improvement.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Depth option with limited potential for growth.
    • Edge: Could adapt to an edge role with added agility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades.
​

Tim Johanssen
  • Strengths:
    • Emerging talent with a strong record of development in 2024.
    • Effective in both defence and offense in lower grades.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Inexperienced at NRL level; needs physical and technical development.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Developmental prospect.
    • Edge: Could adapt with increased agility and lateral movement.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE; may see limited NRL minutes due to injury.
​

Projected 2025 Lineup
  • Lock: Jack Bird is likely to lock the scrum and play a roaming role in attack with Justin Matamua in a development role in KOE. Fonua Pole and Sione Fainu have potential to fill the role if Bird is injured or does not work out.
  • Edge: If retained John Bateman is likely to fill the edge position with Alex Seyfarth/Sione Fainu as first drop. Reuben Porter and Brandon Tumeth/Tony Sukkar are likely to fill the edge positions in KOE. There is a significant lack of depth in this position and we would be well served by moving on one of the junior players and purchasing an experienced NRL edge.
Based on my analysis I think we have a range of exciting, versatile and developing lock options for 2025. However, our edge depth is limited which is likely to cause significant problems if we have a run of injuries. At this point in time we will be relying on some of our less experienced players to step up if we are to make the eight in 2025.

What alternative approaches do you see?
Click to expand...
Good post.

I have Pole playing lock with Seyfarth in the second row. My assumption is that both have plenty of upside and will benefit from a simplified role with Luai’s presence providing more organisation.

Depth is the number one issue, at this stage only Bateman has proven to be a first grader from the other guys in line to play in the second row or lock. Bird is my bench utility and I expect him to be missing through injury a lot unfortunately.
 
Tucker said:
Yes.
I am still unsure who's decision it was to lend him to Warrington? The media make it sound like it was completely untenable and Richo got rid of him.
Ever have a disagreement with someone at work? You sort it out. This isnt middle school.
Click to expand...
100% spot on , Benji needs to be able to work with people and so does Bateman , we need Bateman as we don’t have a replacement , and one thing people keep forgetting , he is in England due to the fact he just played for his country , Luai would know how he was as he probably played against him , I can’t remember off hand but Bateman is still an international player , who do we have in reserve grade or other that is better and would make the Pommy side
 
Tucker said:
Yes.
I am still unsure who's decision it was to lend him to Warrington? The media make it sound like it was completely untenable and Richo got rid of him.
Ever have a disagreement with someone at work? You sort it out. This isnt middle school.
Click to expand...
Your sentiment is correct, but I'm sure you know plenty of people that aren't as mature.

The spectrum of personalities and morality is what we are dealing with in all footy teams.

Looking past the reported bust up, would Batemans position in the team be under question if nothing had happened? I'd argue we would still be trying to offload him regardless. The bust up is just a clown show for the media. The crux of the issue remains. Performance to salary ratio for Bateman is poor.
 
Jolls said:
PART 2
Reuben Porter
  • Strengths
    • Versatility: can play edge and middle forward positions.
    • Defensive Work Rate
    • Experience: While his NRL experience is limited, his eight years in reserve-grade provide a strong foundation
  • Weaknesses
    • Lack of NRL experience; his consistency is not fully tested. Requires further development to compete at NRL level
    • Attacking Play is not as refined as other edge players. He is more of a workhorse, excelling in the physical aspects of the game. Need to add more attacking finesse to his skill set to become a dominant edge forward
  • Suitability for 2025
    • Lock: Limited suitability due to his lack of footwork.
    • Edge Forward: He is a solid option for the edge. His defensive stability and toughness will be assets when facing high-powered edge attackers. However, his limited attacking prowess could see him more frequently in a middle-forward role.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Edge/Middle in KOE; his versatility and defensive qualities make him a valuable depth asset in 2025.
​

Kit Laulilii
  • Strengths:
    • Strong defensive player with leadership potential.
    • Solid development through Tigers' pathways.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks NRL experience.
    • Needs to develop attacking skills.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Long-term prospect with potential.
    • Edge: Less likely due to limited lateral mobility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Tony Sukkar
  • Strengths:
    • Solid foundation; athletic player.
    • Good defensive effort.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks experience at the NRL level
    • Defensive reads can be poor.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Not likely to be suitable
    • Edge: This will depend on his preseason progress and ability to seize opportunities in trial matches
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Brandon Tumeth
  • Strengths:
    • Tenacious defender and hard worker.
    • Physical style suits edge or middle roles.
  • Weaknesses:
    • NRL experience is limited and skill refinement required.
    • Offensive skills, particularly ball-playing, require improvement.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Depth option with limited potential for growth.
    • Edge: Could adapt to an edge role with added agility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades.
​

Tim Johanssen
  • Strengths:
    • Emerging talent with a strong record of development in 2024.
    • Effective in both defence and offense in lower grades.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Inexperienced at NRL level; needs physical and technical development.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Developmental prospect.
    • Edge: Could adapt with increased agility and lateral movement.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE; may see limited NRL minutes due to injury.
​

Projected 2025 Lineup
  • Lock: Jack Bird is likely to lock the scrum and play a roaming role in attack with Justin Matamua in a development role in KOE. Fonua Pole and Sione Fainu have potential to fill the role if Bird is injured or does not work out.
  • Edge: If retained John Bateman is likely to fill the edge position with Alex Seyfarth/Sione Fainu as first drop. Reuben Porter and Brandon Tumeth/Tony Sukkar are likely to fill the edge positions in KOE. There is a significant lack of depth in this position and we would be well served by moving on one of the junior players and purchasing an experienced NRL edge.
Based on my analysis I think we have a range of exciting, versatile and developing lock options for 2025. However, our edge depth is limited which is likely to cause significant problems if we have a run of injuries. At this point in time we will be relying on some of our less experienced players to step up if we are to make the eight in 2025.

What alternative approaches do you see?
Click to expand...
"A" for effort
 
BAGNF05 said:
Good post.

I have Pole playing lock with Seyfarth in the second row. My assumption is that both have plenty of upside and will benefit from a simplified role with Luai’s presence providing more organisation.

Depth is the number one issue, at this stage only Bateman has proven to be a first grader from the other guys in line to play in the second row or lock. Bird is my bench utility and I expect him to be missing through injury a lot unfortunately.
Click to expand...
Pole/Seyfarth or pole/Bateman with Bird at 14 is another workable iteration of the talent we have availble that should be competitive. I have this feeling that Benji will try and use Bird in a similar fashion to the way Cronulla used Wade Graham. I guess time will tell.

I was sceptical about Bird's firtness as well; however, apart from the downtime at the Donkeys and his recent ankle injury he has remained fairly fit. I think he will do a job regardless of where we play him - he is a natural footballer.
 
Tucker said:
Good analysis @Jolls, I agree, we are ok for Lock depth but light on for the edges.
I think everyone who is wishing Bateman would F-off need to realise that we need him for 1 more year. His internal replacements including Fainu, have lots to work on.
Click to expand...
Unless we find someone better than Bateman that is off contract I think he is worth keeping for 2025 at least. Unless he really stinks up the team dynamic paying him to play elsewhere with a lesser player on the books doesn't make sense.
 
Jolls said:
Unless we find someone better than Bateman that is off contract I think he is worth keeping for 2025 at least. Unless he really stinks up the team dynamic paying him to play elsewhere with a lesser player on the books doesn't make sense.
Click to expand...
Spot on , He will be more valuable in our team than not , he tries his arse off and hits hard runs hard , stuff we lacked all of 24 , now he knows he has power players with us in May , Hunt , Klemmer , Pole , Twal , Sam they will all be better in a stronger winning team , that’s us in 25
 
Jolls said:
PART 2
Reuben Porter
  • Strengths
    • Versatility: can play edge and middle forward positions.
    • Defensive Work Rate
    • Experience: While his NRL experience is limited, his eight years in reserve-grade provide a strong foundation
  • Weaknesses
    • Lack of NRL experience; his consistency is not fully tested. Requires further development to compete at NRL level
    • Attacking Play is not as refined as other edge players. He is more of a workhorse, excelling in the physical aspects of the game. Need to add more attacking finesse to his skill set to become a dominant edge forward
  • Suitability for 2025
    • Lock: Limited suitability due to his lack of footwork.
    • Edge Forward: He is a solid option for the edge. His defensive stability and toughness will be assets when facing high-powered edge attackers. However, his limited attacking prowess could see him more frequently in a middle-forward role.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Edge/Middle in KOE; his versatility and defensive qualities make him a valuable depth asset in 2025.
​

Kit Laulilii
  • Strengths:
    • Strong defensive player with leadership potential.
    • Solid development through Tigers' pathways.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks NRL experience.
    • Needs to develop attacking skills.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Long-term prospect with potential.
    • Edge: Less likely due to limited lateral mobility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Tony Sukkar
  • Strengths:
    • Solid foundation; athletic player.
    • Good defensive effort.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Lacks experience at the NRL level
    • Defensive reads can be poor.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Not likely to be suitable
    • Edge: This will depend on his preseason progress and ability to seize opportunities in trial matches
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades with potential for limited NRL minutes due to injuries.
​

Brandon Tumeth
  • Strengths:
    • Tenacious defender and hard worker.
    • Physical style suits edge or middle roles.
  • Weaknesses:
    • NRL experience is limited and skill refinement required.
    • Offensive skills, particularly ball-playing, require improvement.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Depth option with limited potential for growth.
    • Edge: Could adapt to an edge role with added agility.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE/lower grades.
​

Tim Johanssen
  • Strengths:
    • Emerging talent with a strong record of development in 2024.
    • Effective in both defence and offense in lower grades.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Inexperienced at NRL level; needs physical and technical development.
  • Suitability:
    • Lock: Developmental prospect.
    • Edge: Could adapt with increased agility and lateral movement.
  • Likelihood in 2025: Developmental player in KOE; may see limited NRL minutes due to injury.
​

Projected 2025 Lineup
  • Lock: Jack Bird is likely to lock the scrum and play a roaming role in attack with Justin Matamua in a development role in KOE. Fonua Pole and Sione Fainu have potential to fill the role if Bird is injured or does not work out.
  • Edge: If retained John Bateman is likely to fill the edge position with Alex Seyfarth/Sione Fainu as first drop. Reuben Porter and Brandon Tumeth/Tony Sukkar are likely to fill the edge positions in KOE. There is a significant lack of depth in this position and we would be well served by moving on one of the junior players and purchasing an experienced NRL edge.
Based on my analysis I think we have a range of exciting, versatile and developing lock options for 2025. However, our edge depth is limited which is likely to cause significant problems if we have a run of injuries. At this point in time we will be relying on some of our less experienced players to step up if we are to make the eight in 2025.

What alternative approaches do you see?
Click to expand...
There’s a lot in there u have said we’re great at xyz , I think u need to stay away from the red wine , lol , NO great write up but we seen this year a lot are not anyway near 1st grade
 
426Tlgerland said:
Spot on , He will be more valuable in our team than not , he tries his arse off and hits hard runs hard , stuff we lacked all of 24 , now he knows he has power players with us in May , Hunt , Klemmer , Pole , Twal , Sam they will all be better in a stronger winning team , that’s us in 25
Click to expand...
I'd prefer Johannssen to Bateman any day doesn't give away free kicks when he's got the ball for a start.
 
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